Conference tournaments are about basketball but also so much more: the fans, parents, bands, cheerleaders, etc. The A-10 Tournament is taking place this week in Washington, DC, and we could not be more excited to be there in person! HoopsHD is covering all the angles so you can look forward to an abundance of access in the days ahead. Jon Teitel continues our coverage from DC with an interview of Duquesne pep band graduate assistant Kasey Higginbotham about being in the band and how the Dukes will do today.
You are from Flowery Branch, GA: what made you choose Duquesne? The wonderful opportunities and faculty at Duquesne including Dr. James Gourlay, Tuba Virtuoso.
You do so many things with the band including performing/teaching/composing/arranging: what is your favorite role? My favorite part is teaching/composing, but playing is fun, and I like the creative and problem-solving aspect.
You are pursuing a Master’s Degree in Tuba Performance: what is the post-graduation plan? I will be returning to Duquesne to pursue an Artist Diploma.
You perform with a variety of ensembles including the Duquesne Wind Symphony, the Duquesne Symphony Orchestra, the Duquesne Brass Band, the Duquesne Pep Band, the Ghost Brass (professional Brass Quintet) and 5FeetWide (an instrumental trio comprised of 3 tuba players): which is your favorite ensemble? Either the trio or the quintet, as they provide much more room for creativity/intimacy.
You are a big hiker/camper: do you have a favorite outdoor spot? I definitely do: Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico has a special place in my heart.
Your basketball team won 25 games last year and made the NCAA tourney: what are your memories of that incredible postseason run? Unfortunately I could not attend the men’s A-10 tournament, but I do remember celebrating the huge victory when they returned to campus.
The team has only won 13 games so far this year: is there a big difference in supporting the team when they are having a good year vs. a bad year? In my opinion, the pep band’s job is even more crucial when the team is playing less well or losing. There is a definite difference when the team feels supported.
How does your school decide who gets to go to DC? Our school’s band has basically a volunteer system so it is first-come-first-served.
Does your band have anything extra-special planned for this week? Just celebrating and supporting the Dukes in their wins.
Any predictions for your game today vs. St. Bonaventure? The Dukes are going to go out and play a great game!
